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Top Hotels In Philadelphia On A Budget

Philadelphia is a city rich in history and offers countless places to explore. There are some well-known hotels in downtown Philadelphia, but they get to be quite pricey. It can also be expensive to stay outside the city, with added costs for transportation to and from. Fortunately, there are some gracious hosts in Philadelphia that offer convenient and historical experiences that fit within your budget.

Best Hotels in Philly on a Budget
Photo Credit: La Reserve B & B

Price: Rooms start at $80 per night

This charming B&B is actually two four-story Rittenhouse Square-area townhouses built in the 19th century. It has the nickname "The Grand Dame of Philadelphia," explaining why La Reserve occasionally plays host to intimate weddings. Your lodging features a piano, a lovely garden and beautiful artwork adorning most of the walls. Each guest room includes a bathroom, and the suites offer a private bath. This four-floored haven is elevator free, so take note if you require handicap accessible accommodations.

Price: Rooms start at $119 per night

Although the Alexander originally opened in the late 90's, the idea was to create the look and feel of 1930's modern deco, which is reflected in the hotel's architecture and artwork. It's also within walking distance to the Reading Terminal Market, which is a neighborhood farmers' market. The 48 rooms include air conditioning, cable television, wireless internet connectivity and a private bath. Despite Alexander's B&B feel, there is also a fitness center available to knock off the calories gained back at the hearty breakfast served each morning. One last thing to note: your nose will surely be satisfied with the fresh flowers that placed in rooms throughout the inn. Pets are not permitted.

Related: Guide to the Reading Terminal Market

Best Hotels in Philadelphia on a Budget
Photo Credit: Manayunk Terrace

Price: Rooms start at $100 per night

Manayunk was annexed more than 150 years ago by the city of Philadelphia and is located along the river about five miles from Center City. Manayunk Terrace offers lodging just steps from renowned Main Street, which is home to many Old World shops and eateries. The Terrace offers an introductory 50 percent off your second night's stay for all first time guests. They also provide queen beds, a private terrace and gourmet kitchens. Pets are not permitted.

Price: Rooms start at $149 per night

The Morris House Hotel can be a little hard to find since it's actually positioned between Walnut Street and Locust Street, on Saint James Street (east side of Broad Street). The building is registered as a National Historic Landmark, having been originally built in 1787. It has since been fully renovated with modern amenities, but still manages to hold on to the historic charm of being an 18th century boutique hotel. Its location is within Society Hill, just a few blocks from Independence Mall and the Liberty Bell. The Morris House has its own quaint restaurant called M, which offers a continental breakfast. It has specials on mini-suites and rooms, including a complimentary third night if you stay 2 nights between Sunday and Thursday.

Price: Rooms start at $85 per night.

This charming, yet affordable locale is tucked away in Bella Vista, an area known to be a gateway neighborhood to South Philadelphia that is still close to Center City and the world famous South Street. It's decorated with colorful artwork and antique furniture that dates back hundreds of years. This renovated B&B was built in 1860 and features signature bright yellow shutters. It offers continental breakfast, and most of the 19 rooms have a private bath. The suites feature modern eat-in kitchens.

Related: Tours of Historic Philadelphia

Darren Hunter is an author, lecturer, and freelancer covering travel and outdoors around Philadelphia. His third book, The Exile Project, was set in Philadelphia's Fairmount Park at Valley Green. His work can be found at Examiner.com.


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